STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. - ALL SHORES - People with diabetes need to take extra precautions during the dog days of summer, according to UnitedHealth Group.

That's because their bodies are less capable of adjusting to increases in temperature. Nerve damage – a common effect of diabetes – affects sweat glands and other organs, making it harder for people to cool down.

"People with diabetes often have a reduced ability to sweat, which, in hot, humid weather can further impair the body's capacity to regulate sugar levels in the blood," said Don Stangler, medical director for UnitedHealthcare New York.

Here are some tips for getting through the remaining hot weather ahead:

* Check your blood sugar levels often. Many people tend to be more active in the summer, and changes in activity and temperatures can impact the insulin needs of people with diabetes.

* Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, which can further stress the body and affect glucose levels.

* Stay cool. Take breaks from the heat in air-conditioned areas or designated cooling centers.

* Keep medication and supplies as cool as possible and away from direct sunlight. Extreme heat can cause insulin and other supplies to break down or become less potent.

* Avoid caffeine and alcohol in high temperatures. Both can boost the risk of dehydration.

* Watch for signs of heat exhaustion. These include heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting and fainting, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.